Franklin McCain's ties to Greensboro and the Civil Rights Movement were many. He was one of the Greensboro Four who sat at the Woolworth's lunch counter in 1960 humbly insisting to be served a cup of coffee. He continued his great work in many ways, including serving on the board to trustees at NC A&T University and being active with the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund. The above photo was taken on February 1st 2010 when McCain (right) and Rev. Jesse Jackson (left) were in town for the 50th Anniversiary of the Greensboro Sit-Ins as well as the opening of the International Civil Rights Museum and Center.* They were looking at the ground because it had snowed over night and Elm Street was slippery. However, the event was so monumental and the dedication to the Civil Rights Movement was so strong, not even ice and snow could keep people away.
Mr. McCain died Thursday at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro. His wife died a year ago (January 2, 2013). They were both involved with the Civil Rights Movement. The Charlotte Observer shared a quote from Mr. McCain, who was reflecting on the day at the Woolworth's lunch counter, "That day- February 1, 1960- was the best day of my life, and just for sitting on some dumb stool," he said. "It was a reaffirmation of who I am and what I'm supposed to be" (reference). How fitting that Mr. McCain breathed his last breath in Greensboro, a place that helped shape his legacy in the Civil Rights Movement.
Sundays, referred to as Sacred Sunday on GDP, are reserved for moments of spiritual reflection. If you believe in prayer, please say one for the McCain family and for all those following in his footsteps, working to make sure that life if fair, for everyone.
It's impossible not to consider the incredible bravery of that simple act in 1960.
Posted by: Oakland Daily Photo | Sunday, January 12, 2014 at 04:27 PM